Summer is right around the corner, which means it’s time to start thinking about what to wear to the beach. If you’re a curvy woman, you know that finding a bathing suit that fits both your body and your style can be a challenge. But no worries because you’re going to be the queen of the beach this summer with the perfect bathing suit! Here are the best bathing suits for curvy women, no matter what your taste.
So, what are the best bathing suits for curvy women? First and foremost, you want a suit that fits your body properly. That means finding a style that flatters your figure and makes you feel confident. You also want a suit that’s comfortable and won’t ride up or fall down as you move around. And of course, you want something super stylish so you look and feel fabulous!
Keep in mind that some links are paid affiliate links. When you buy through these links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Any opinions expressed are not impacted by this.
Flattering Styles
When it comes to bathing suits, finding the right style is crucial. As a curvy woman, I recommend looking for swimsuits that offer full coverage and support. One-piece swimsuits with built-in underwire bras and adjustable straps are a great option for those who want to minimize their bust or provide extra support. Tankinis are another great choice that offers more coverage than a bikini while still allowing you to show some skin.
Consider a High-Waisted Bottom
High-waisted bottoms are perfect for curvy women because they help smooth out the tummy area while accentuating the waistline. They also offer more coverage than traditional bikini bottoms, making them a great choice for those who want to feel more confident with extra coverage.
Embrace Your Curves with a Bikini
Who says curvy women can’t wear bikinis? If you feel good in it, go for it! Good support may be the extra boost you need to truly enjoy your bikini so make sure you feel well supported in it. Looking uncomfortable because you’re pulling on your clothing can also send a message that you’re not feeling confident. Halter tops are a great option for curvy women because they offer more support than traditional triangle tops. Look for bikinis with adjustable straps and underwire bras to ensure a comfortable and secure fit.
Opt for Dark Colors and Patterns
When it comes to choosing a bathing suit, color and pattern are important factors to consider as well. Dark colors like black, navy, and dark green are slimming and flattering, making them one of my favorite choices. You can also experiment with bold patterns like stripes and polka dots, which can help draw attention away from any areas you want to minimize.
Choose a Suit with Adjustable Straps
One of the biggest challenges curvy women face when shopping for bathing suits is finding a suit that fits their unique shape. Adjustable straps allow you to customize the fit of your suit, ensuring that it stays in place and provides the support you need.
Consider a Swim Dress
If you’re looking for a swimsuit that provides extra coverage, consider a swim dress. Swim dresses are perfect for curvy women because they offer full coverage while still being stylish and comfortable. Look for swim dresses with built-in bras and adjustable straps to ensure a comfortable and secure fit. My favorite swimdresses use a sheer over-skirt on the bottom with a solid underpant giving you the best of both options.
Go for Ruching
Ruching is a great feature to look for in a bathing suit if you’re looking to flatter your curves. Ruching is a gathering of fabric that creates a flattering and slimming effect. Look for swimsuits with ruching around the tummy area to help smooth out any lumps and bumps.
Try a One-Piece with Cutouts
One-piece swimsuits with cutouts are a feel-good flattering option as well. The cutouts have a peek-a-boo style that doesn’t completely expose you.
8 Steps to Finding Your Perfect Swimsuit
1. Love your curvy body!
Enjoying the beach means enjoying your body. You can relax better when you feel completely comfortable the way you are. Styling your body is part of that confidence boost you want so don’t skimp on the things that matter. Get the fit right and a style that you love.
2. 5 Things to Look for If You Have a Larger Bust
- Thicker straps
- Adjustable straps
- Halter styles
- Underwire bra or built-in boning/support
- V-neck styles
- Low profile ruffles can work well so test it and see
3. Want to slim the waist more? Look for:
- A tankini with a ruched side
- High waisted bottoms
- Wrap bikini
4. Style decisions
Some details can help accentuate your best features and draw attention away from areas you’re more self-conscious about. Pay attention to where ruffles, bows, and beads are.
5. Measure yourself.
Knowing your measurements will help you to better understand what sizes and shapes will fit you best. It’s also helpful to know your measurements when shopping online, as you can then better filter for suits that are likely to fit. Check the sizing guides because not all swimsuits are created equally. An XL by one designer could be a L on another’s sizing guide based on the measurements.
6. Try Everything
Don’t be afraid to try on different styles. Just because you’ve always worn a certain type of bathing suit doesn’t mean it’s the only type that will look good on you. It’s important to experiment to find what looks and feels best.
7. Looking for a more modest look?
Swimsuits with skirted bottoms can come in a range of different style skirts. You can also get a one-piece or a tankini and choose a cover-up that works well with it. There are just as many options for cover ups as there are for bathing suits. Pull over styles, zipped, open, sarongs, wraps, lace, mesh, crochet. Match your cover-ups to your mood, the swimsuit, and the location and you can’t go wrong.
8. Finally, pick a suit in a color or print that you love and that makes you feel confident.
No matter your size, shape, or style, feeling confident in your bathing suit is the point. You’re wearing less clothing than usual, so you want to make sure you feel good about what you have on. For curvy women, this can be a challenge.
First, it’s important to find a bathing suit that fits well. This can be tricky, as many brands don’t offer a wide range of sizes. But it’s worth taking the time to find a suit that fits your body well. Once you find a brand that works for you, stick with it.
Then, pick a suit in a color or print that you love and that makes you feel confident. If you feel good in a bright color, go ahead and work it! If you prefer a more subtle print, that’s okay, too. The important thing is that you find a suit that you love and that makes you feel great.
There are lots of great options for curvy women when it comes to bathing suits. One-pieces and tankinis are always a good choice, and there are lots of great prints and designs to choose from. If you want to show off your curves, you can go for a bikini, but make sure to get a good fit so that you’re comfortable and confident. No matter what your style, there’s a bathing suit out there that’s perfect for you.
Here’s some of my favorite picks that worked really well for me. They might work well for you too!
The Great Cover-Up: Best Bathing Suits for Curvy Women
Some women want a fabulous cover-up that says I came to look great while I lounge. Some want plus size modest swimwear and a cover-up can be just the answer to add a little more of a modest touch. Sexy or modest, beach or pool, these are some of the best bathing suits for curvy women that you can find on Amazon.
Two-Piece Maxi with Chiffon Skirt
Over 30 colors up to 3XL. The skirt can be a bit long if you’re under 5’ 4” without heels.
Note: This one is very long, great with heels if you’re short like me. But, then again, that would make it more of a cute by the pool look than a beach one.
Two – Piece Tankini with a One Shoulder Ruffle
A one-shoulder ruffle with true support and built in bra. The ruffle also doesn’t overpower like some ruffles can feel on larger breasts. The top also pairs well with other bottoms you may have so select a good color that will go well with what is already in your closet.
Short Sheer Kimono Cardigan
This kimono has a light voile feel and pairs with everyday outfits as well as swimsuit coverage.
Note: This one is open and very lightweight. It’s easy to pack and looks great with several different types of swimming suits or over a tank top and shorts.
Halter Bikini 3-Piece Set with Cover-Up
Sizes 16 to 24 in 6 colors/patterns. Very flattering and the cover-up works well over other swimsuits. I wasn’t expecting to love this one but I really do!
Note: This coverup looks great with other swimsuits, I rarely ever wear the bikini part though. OK, never. But, I love the sheer coverup.
One-Piece One-Shoulder Mesh Slimming and Supportive Swimsuit
14 colors in sizes up to 3X. No reason to fear the mesh, it’s very comfortable even if you’re new to exposing a little more skin.
One-Piece Boyshort Retro Swimsuit
Sizes 12 – 24 in 14 colors/patterns. Love this one, it’s very flattering and comfortable. My personal favorite.
Long Sheer Open Front Kimono Cardigan
This cardigan has a great flowy feel but don’t expect much frontal coverage. The colors and pattern make a great compliment to a bright blue swimsuit.
Note: It doesn’t close but looks fabulous in the breeze or while lounging.
One Piece Mesh Swimdress
Available in over 40 different styles, colors, and patterns up to a size 22. A coverup and swimsuit in one with support and nice coverage while still feeling sexy and care-free.
Long Flowy High-Low Maxi/Caftan
Available in 19 patterns and colors and easily fits larger frames.
Athletic Rash Guard Tankini with Capris
Order a size up to accommodate larger cup sizes. Available in over 30 colors and patterns available in sizes up to 4XL.
Why Cover-up?
Maybe it’s a comfort thing but I love the lounging aspect, especially while on a resort. You can easily go from your lounge chair to the dining room with the right cover up. Remember some dining rooms on the resort may have dress requirements that won’t allow for swimwear. A gorgeous cover-up has great double duty benefits to take you from the pool or beach to a short walk or a seaside lunch.
You don’t have to cover up!
While I love a cute cover-up, you do not have to. Whether you consider yourself to be curvy, plus-sized, plump, or chubby, you are absolutely gorgeous and deserve a swimsuit that makes you feel incredible. If you pick something that makes you feel incredible, you will look incredible because confidence shines bright.
Stop fidgeting. I have noticed that I am more prone to fidgeting when I’m uncomfortable. If the suit is too big, too small, too tight, or any tiny little bit of discomfort will ruin my mood. Just keep trying until you find the perfect match. Comfort is key.
There are certainly plenty of places to look for plus size travel clothes and resort wear but I wanted to be sure that a decent suit didn’t have to cost $100+. Amazon had many options often for $20 – 40. I was surprised by the amount of support some have, the tummy tucking abilities, and the styles from rash guards to 2 piece bikinis. I was not disappointed and I hope you won’t be either.
Shop all of the plus size beach wear above:
Ready to Wander?
Try one of my favorite resources!
